Courtesy – b-imm
Australia is known for its attractive opportunities for skilled professionals seeking to migrate and build a new life. The skilled migration program offers a pathway to permanent residency based on an individual's skills, qualifications, and work experience. Here is a comprehensive guide to understanding the eligibility criteria and application process for skilled migration to Australia:
Points-based system: Skilled migration to Australia operates on a points-based system. Applicants are assessed based on factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education qualifications, and nominated occupation.
Skilled Occupation List (SOL): The first step is to check if your occupation is on the relevant skilled occupation list. The Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) and the Short-term Skilled Occupation List (STSOL) outline the occupations in demand in Australia.
Skills assessment: To apply for skilled migration, you must have your skills assessed by the relevant assessing authority for your occupation. Each assessing authority has its own criteria and requirements.
Expression of Interest (EOI): After receiving a positive skills assessment, you can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the online system, SkillSelect. This is an indication that you are interested in applying for a skilled visa.
Invitation to Apply: If you meet the eligibility requirements and have a competitive score, you may receive an invitation to apply for a skilled visa. Invitations are issued regularly based on the points score and occupation demand.
Submitting the visa application: Once you receive an invitation, you can proceed to submit a formal visa application within the specified timeframe. You must provide all the required documents, including evidence of your skills assessment, English language proficiency, work experience, and health and character requirements.
Points calculation: Points are awarded for various factors such as age, English language proficiency, work experience, education, and partner skills. The minimum points requirement to be eligible for skilled migration is currently 65.
Visa subclasses: Skilled migration to Australia can be applied for through different visa subclasses, including the Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189), the Skilled Nominated visa (subclass 190), and the Skilled Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491). Check with Sydney migration agents which one you would be eligible for.
Visa processing and decision: The Department of Home Affairs processes skilled migration visa applications. The processing time may vary depending on the visa subclass, the completeness of your application, and individual circumstances.
